In recent years, municipalities have increasingly been removing nude sculptures from public spaces such as parks, train stations, and bridges, deeming them inappropriate. Originally erected nationwide after World War II as symbols of peace, replacing military statues, these artworks are now criticized as outdated, with some suggesting they be displayed in museums instead.
In Takamatsu, the central park hosts 31 statues, including a nude sculpture of two girls, donated by the local Lions Club in 1989. Recently, experts, reviewing plans to revamp the park, labeled the statue as outdated, echoing sentiments from schoolchildren who expressed discomfort during field trips. The city plans to remove the statue during renovation work beginning in late August, citing evolving public values.
The sculpture’s creator, 94-year-old sculptor Seiichi Abe, expressed disappointment over the decision. Titled “Two Girls,” the piece commemorates the 1988 opening of the Seto Ohashi Bridge, symbolizing the unity and growth of the Shikoku and Honshu regions.
Throughout Japan, the proliferation of nude statues in public spaces began in 1951 with the “Peace Statue” in Tokyo, marking a shift from pre-war military monuments removed due to material shortages and post-war Allied directives. Unlike in Japan, where such statues are common in public areas, in Europe and Asia, they are typically found within museum grounds or gardens.
Municipal reevaluations are occurring elsewhere as well. For instance, a statue of a dancing nude woman was removed from Takarazuka Bridge in Hyogo due to public sentiment, and discussions about its reinstatement continue. In Shizuoka, Mayor Takeshi Namba has suggested relocating numerous nude statues to a museum for more appropriate appreciation. The city is currently seeking expert opinions for future actions.
According to Kikuo Miyashita, a professor of art history at Kobe University, societal perceptions of child nudity have become more critical over time. He advises cities to solicit public opinion and carefully consider whether to maintain or remove these statues that have blended into the landscape over decades.
by MagazineKey4532